Our Treatment Coordinator and Behavioral Specialist Julia Jacobson reminds us that this week is National Play Therapy Week.

Julia Jacobson, LMSW, M.S.Ed

Play is an integral part of our day at League because it's the natural language of children. Play therapy creates a space where children are able to explore their experiences and emotions using toys and other materials. Children who might otherwise be unable to express themselves find an outlet in play therapy. As a play therapist, I look for themes in a child’s play, and I create an environment where the child feels safe and has a sense of mastery. These feelings of safety and control may be difficult for a child to find in the "real world". Parents can be important allies to play therapy. Parents often help me make connections between what the child is experiencing at home and what they are expressing in the playroom.